Windows 7 Security - Five Easy Steps to a More Secure Windows 7

Understanding security threats in Windows 7, is of the utmost importance for professional and personal users alike. When people speak of security threats on their personal computers, they are generally referring to viruses, which can infect your computer in many ways.

A virus is a program that can replicate itself, it usually does this by attaching itself to another object such as an e-mail attachment. Viruses are generally a destructive program designed to corrupt data files and delete installed programs on your PC, and possibly damage the operating system.

Other security threats such as worms and spy-ware also need to be protected against. A worm is a program that often copies itself from one computer on a network to another, worm programs can also contain virus codes that can do damage to your data and wreak havoc with the performance of your PC.

Spy-ware programs are just what the name implies, these are software programs that can track your web surfing habits, display pop-up ads, redirect your browser to a different homepage that's not yours. And collect personal information without your permission.

Number One. First line of defense in securing your computer is creating a log on password. The log on password that you create should not be one that could be easily guessed. Your password should be at least eight characters long, the longer the better. You should use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and spaces.

Do not use your name, your pets name, child's name or any word that can be found in the dictionary. You can also use a phrase as a password, up to 127 characters, it should be something easily remembered by you, so it's not necessary to write it down.

Number Two. The second line of defense in securing your computer is applying a firewall to block outside intruders.Use Windows Firewall, it comes with Windows 7, and is much improved over the previous Windows versions. Any time you're connected to a network, whether it's a private or a public network, you are at risk. Each computer on the network should have its own firewall. That way if another user's computer becomes infected because they are not as vigilant about securing their computer, you will still be protected.

One example is if you take your laptop to work. You may think you're protected because your work place has a firewall installed for their network. But if a co- worker brings in their laptop and it is infected with a virus or mall-ware, you will only be protected If you have a personal firewall installed.

Number Three. The third line of defense is to use an anti-virus program. Windows 7 does not come with an anti-virus program. You will need to obtain one. There are literally hundreds of anti-virus programs available, you can purchase one at a local retailer, or purchase a download online, or download one of the many free versions available. Whatever option works best for you, make sure you do some research about the particular program you choose.

One of the best options is to download a trial version of the anti-virus software of your choice, that way you can try it out on your system, to see if it's the right fit for you. Many of the free versions work as well as the boxed versions. With one exception being the virus definition updates are sometimes slow in coming with the free programs.

Number Four. The fourth line of defense is to use an anti-spyware program. Windows 7 includes a program called Windows Defender, which works well as an anti-spyware program. Some of the indications of spyware infections are new toolbar s in your web browser and new favorites and links that you don't recognize. Also, your homepage might have changed, and you don't know why, you have numerous pop-up ads appearing and you're Internet browser crashes or slows down.

Windows Defender runs continuously in the background monitoring your system to prevent the installation of spyware, and to alert you to any spyware like activity. Windows defender's automatic scans have been improved in Windows 7 over the previous versions of Windows. The automatic scans use less resources than they did in the previous versions. You can schedule the automatic scans to run at whatever time is best so as not to interfere while you are using your computer.

Number Five. The fifth line of defense is to keep Windows up to date. The Windows Update service in Windows 7 is much improved over the version in Windows XP. It no longer is a web-based interface, but is now a Control Panel application. Keeping Windows up to date is an essential step in the security of your computer. The Windows Update feature can be configured to run totally automated, it will search for, download, and install the updates with no needed interaction from you.

There are three categories of updates, important, recommended, and optional. It is recommended to let Windows Update install the important updates as they become available. Security updates are the most important items in the important category, therefore, you should let Windows Update download and install the security updates so you are continuously protected from those who would exploit the vulnerabilities in Windows.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5806992

Windows 7 Security - Five Easy Steps to a More Secure Windows 7

Understanding security threats in Windows 7, is of the utmost importance for professional and personal users alike. When people speak of security threats on their personal computers, they are generally referring to viruses, which can infect your computer in many ways.

A virus is a program that can replicate itself, it usually does this by attaching itself to another object such as an e-mail attachment. Viruses are generally a destructive program designed to corrupt data files and delete installed programs on your PC, and possibly damage the operating system.

Other security threats such as worms and spy-ware also need to be protected against. A worm is a program that often copies itself from one computer on a network to another, worm programs can also contain virus codes that can do damage to your data and wreak havoc with the performance of your PC.

Spy-ware programs are just what the name implies, these are software programs that can track your web surfing habits, display pop-up ads, redirect your browser to a different homepage that's not yours. And collect personal information without your permission.

Number One. First line of defense in securing your computer is creating a log on password. The log on password that you create should not be one that could be easily guessed. Your password should be at least eight characters long, the longer the better. You should use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and spaces.

Do not use your name, your pets name, child's name or any word that can be found in the dictionary. You can also use a phrase as a password, up to 127 characters, it should be something easily remembered by you, so it's not necessary to write it down.

Number Two. The second line of defense in securing your computer is applying a firewall to block outside intruders.Use Windows Firewall, it comes with Windows 7, and is much improved over the previous Windows versions. Any time you're connected to a network, whether it's a private or a public network, you are at risk. Each computer on the network should have its own firewall. That way if another user's computer becomes infected because they are not as vigilant about securing their computer, you will still be protected.

One example is if you take your laptop to work. You may think you're protected because your work place has a firewall installed for their network. But if a co- worker brings in their laptop and it is infected with a virus or mall-ware, you will only be protected If you have a personal firewall installed.

Number Three. The third line of defense is to use an anti-virus program. Windows 7 does not come with an anti-virus program. You will need to obtain one. There are literally hundreds of anti-virus programs available, you can purchase one at a local retailer, or purchase a download online, or download one of the many free versions available. Whatever option works best for you, make sure you do some research about the particular program you choose.

One of the best options is to download a trial version of the anti-virus software of your choice, that way you can try it out on your system, to see if it's the right fit for you. Many of the free versions work as well as the boxed versions. With one exception being the virus definition updates are sometimes slow in coming with the free programs.

Number Four. The fourth line of defense is to use an anti-spyware program. Windows 7 includes a program called Windows Defender, which works well as an anti-spyware program. Some of the indications of spyware infections are new toolbar s in your web browser and new favorites and links that you don't recognize. Also, your homepage might have changed, and you don't know why, you have numerous pop-up ads appearing and you're Internet browser crashes or slows down.

Windows Defender runs continuously in the background monitoring your system to prevent the installation of spyware, and to alert you to any spyware like activity. Windows defender's automatic scans have been improved in Windows 7 over the previous versions of Windows. The automatic scans use less resources than they did in the previous versions. You can schedule the automatic scans to run at whatever time is best so as not to interfere while you are using your computer.

Number Five. The fifth line of defense is to keep Windows up to date. The Windows Update service in Windows 7 is much improved over the version in Windows XP. It no longer is a web-based interface, but is now a Control Panel application. Keeping Windows up to date is an essential step in the security of your computer. The Windows Update feature can be configured to run totally automated, it will search for, download, and install the updates with no needed interaction from you.

There are three categories of updates, important, recommended, and optional. It is recommended to let Windows Update install the important updates as they become available. Security updates are the most important items in the important category, therefore, you should let Windows Update download and install the security updates so you are continuously protected from those who would exploit the vulnerabilities in Windows.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5806992

Windows 7: Explore new and improved security features

Windows 7 the newest operating system from Microsoft, simplifies computer security, making it easier for you to reduce the risk of damage caused by viruses, spyware and other malware. Windows 7 also features an improved backup solution to help keep your information safe, and its improved parental controls help you protect your family.


The Action Center: security information at your fingertips

The new Windows 7 Action Center in the Control Panel helps you make sure that your firewall is on, your antivirus software is up to date, and your computer is set to install updates automatically.

Protect your data from theft, hackers, and accidental loss

BitLocker Drive Encryption encrypts your Windows hard disk to help keep documents, passwords, and other important data safe. Once you turn on BitLocker, any file that you save on that drive is encrypted automatically.


Windows Firewall can also help protect your computer from hackers and malicious software. With Windows 7, the built-in firewall is more flexible and easier to use than before.

The Microsoft backup system is also improved for Windows 7. Backup and Restore creates copies of your most important files, so you're always prepared for the worst.

Defend your computer against viruses, spyware, and other malware

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free download for Windows 7 that helps protect your computer from viruses, spyware, worms, Trojans, and other malware.

Windows 7 also includes Windows Defender, software that helps protect your computer from pop-up ads, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software. For more information, see Using Windows Defender.

Reduce risk by enhancing security and control

Windows 7 makes it easier and less intrusive to run your computer as a standard user instead of as an administrator. Windows Vista introduced User Account Control, a feature that warned you when a program wanted to make a change on your computer. Windows 7 improves on this feature, which means you’ll get the same level of protection, but with fewer messages than before.


Help protect your family

Windows Vista included parental controls, but they are new and improved forWindows 7. Now they're more flexible and easier to use. With Windows 7 Parental Controls you can:


Prevent your children from playing games you don't want them to play.

Keep your children from running specific programs.

Set specific time limits on your children's computer use.

With the Parental Controls in Windows Media Center (available in Windows 7 Home Premium and above), you can also block access to objectionable TV shows and movies.


Source:-www.microsoft.com

Microsoft Windows and Computer Security Spotlight

Recent newsmaker stories regarding Microsoft Windows security highlighted the recurring theme that there are "care and feeding" issues related to using computers in the dynamic, connected world of the Internet. Just days ago this month, computer users of home PCs, businesses, and mobile laptop users were affected. In this case, the issue was an animated cursor (typically, an ".ANI" file) exploit, which abused a Windows feature, and therefore created the issue.

The impact potential was high; if attacked, most recent versions of Windows (2000, XP, 2003, Vista) permitted the bug to engage "Remote Code Installation and Execution" without the user's knowledge. Under the right conditions, simply viewing a baited web page could set into motion the steps to infect the host PC with progressively damaging malfunctioning software (malware). The malware could take many forms, in a stealth-like fashion, with users unable to detect anything unusual, which makes this particular infection damaging to Internet coupled PCs. At worst, potentially your PC could automatically join a network of remotely controlled "zombie" computers, ready to perform additional malicious tasks to the connected world under remote direction. PCs left powered on for long periods unattended or in "screen saver" mode could do lots of downstream damage, switching to a more subdued, "light-impact" mode when the unsuspecting user returned to the PC.

This particular exploit was notable, in that a variant was apparently identified and patched in 2005, with a second form of the exploit surfacing in December 2006. Further, the typical practice of using firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus applications would not have prevented infection, leaving many users with a false sense of security, so to speak. Reportedly, the exploit could happen whether you used Firefox or something other than Internet Explorer 7 under Windows Vista (in protected mode) to browse the web (though Vista was not totally immune).

The good news- there have been several patch updates from Microsoft to correct this condition on the windows update website. This real-life technology drama may illuminate a thought in your own situation. Is now maybe a good time to review my own procedure for ensuring a secured and sound computing environment in my company? Could be; Array Systems suggests the following basic operational components be included in a security review:

Anti-Virus.
Make sure you have recent versions and current definition (signature) updates. There are license fees/renewals with most products, which should be maintained or checked.

Anti-Spyware.
Similar to Anti-Virus in function- ensure updates and versions are current for this tool to be effective. This can be part of a suite of defense products, all with the intent of providing added protection.

Microsoft Update.
A free Microsoft web service that provides direct and concise access to software updates for Microsoft products (Windows, Office, etc.) You can set manual or automated updates, but you should understand the ramifications of each method.

Firewall.
Hardware firewall devices are preferred, as some software based firewall/Internet security products can be ineffective for certain environments.

Gateway/Content Filter.
Hardware and software based devices which can provide active protection between internal users and the Internet, and also manage wireless, PDA/mobile users, remote access, etc.

In addition, there are behavioral (human factors) components that should be part of the security review, which do not involve hardware or software. For example, antivirus experts have noted that perhaps 35-40% of virus definition/signatures are unavailable on average, due to delays in developing remedies or in detecting new malware exploits. Therefore, the habits and interaction patterns of users become a vital part of a security protection strategy, which might include:

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/532536

Microsoft Windows 7 Virus Protection, Free Virus And Trojan Removal Security Software

Free Virus And Trojan Scanners

Here are the complete list of free Antivirus for Windows. Unlike the paid version, these free Antivirus usually comes with the basic stuff only, such as the ability to auto scan and quarantine only. It may not have the bell and whistle of a paid version such as firewall, anti Spyware anti rootkit, anti spam and much more.

Avast|
AVG Free edition (Windows and Linux)
a-squared
Moon Secure (Open Source)

Avira Antivirus (Windows, Linux, Free BSD and Solaris) (BEST, MY FAVORITE)
BitDefender
Clam AV (Linux and UNIX, integrates with mail servers)
Graugon AntiVirus (Open Source)
IObit Security 360
Fortinet Endpoint Security (Network based)
ClamWin (Open-source AntiVirus program for Windows)
Comodo Anti-Virus
DriveSentry (some paid features)
Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware (on-demand is free; Real-time Protection not free)
Immunet Protect (free community-based cloud AntiVirus)
FProt (Linux, FreeBSD and Solaris)
HandyBits
Panda Cloud Antivirus
PC Tools AntiVirus
ThreatExpert
Microsoft Security Essentials

Source:-www.geckoandfly.com

Understanding basics of Windows Web Security

With hundreds of thousands of viruses and trojans just waiting to infect your computer when given the right opportunity, do you really have any reason not to have some form of Windows Web Security?

The Internet is a technological marvel that allows unprecedented levels of communication, but many unscrupulous individuals use the technology to wreak havoc among Internet users by creating viruses and other malware. Protecting yourself against these threats should be your main priority, especially if you use your computer to conduct business online.

Many people do not understand the various types of malware and how they can negatively impact your PC performance, or even expose private data that has no business in the hands of others. Better understanding how these malware programs work will provide you with insight into the protection you need for your computer.

Two of the most common types of malware that affect computers today are viruses and trojans. Viruses are the most lethal to any computer since they can attach themselves to any executable file on your computer, replicate, and essentially destroy your system before you know what has happened. Preventing this type of replication and destruction should be your main priority, which is why an anti-virus is necessary.

Trojans are aptly named since they provide a back door into your computer's network that allows the hacker that spread the trojan the ability to access any personal information on your computer. While trojans do not operate the same as a virus in that they do not destroy your computer, they are just as bad since they provide a back door to personal information. This can be devastating if you have ever used your credit card or bank account online, since the hacker can gain access to that information.

Aside from viruses and trojans that can destroy your computer and leave paths for hackers to collect your personal information, you must also worry about spyware and adware installing themselves on your computer. These are less of a threat than viruses and trojans, but they can directly affect the performance of your computer, bogging it down and eating up precious processing time, causing your computer to respond very sluggishly. To top it off, these sorts of programs usually have some sort of feature that phones home, reporting your browser history and other private details you may not want revealed.

With so many threats to computers in the wild, you can see the benefit of having a secure anti-virus and spyware solution that will protect you when you need it most. When considering a solution for protection, you need to make sure your suite will protect against viruses, trojans, spyware, and adware, otherwise you are paying for a solution that does not have you 100% covered. In addition, an anti-virus suite that auto-updates with the latest virus definitions should be your top priority, so you know you are protected from the latest threats.

Article Source: http://goo.gl/H7IgI

Let's Understand the Windows 7 Security Center

Windows Security Center is a security tool included with Microsoft's Windows XP Service Pack 2, Windows Vista and Windows 7 operating systems. It allows you to monitor the status of computer security settings and services. Windows Security Center also constantly examines these security settings, and informs via a pop-up notification sign if there is something wrong. Microsoft has renamed it as Action Center in Windows 7, where it covers maintenance as well as security.

Windows 7 Security Center

Windows 7 Security center or Action Center is a single point from where you can get system maintenance information, security information and can also diagnose computer problems if any. Microsoft has reformed Security Center into a handier and informative Action Center however, you can use the same term as it's more common amongst folks. It includes the following categories:

1. Windows 7 Security Center Notifications

It alerts you when there are important messages that require proper maintenance. The notification itself is very informative and lets you know about the problem right away. Action Center settings provide options to personalize these notifications.

2. Action Center - Security

In this category, you can monitor all of the required security information, problems and the options to troubleshoot.

3. Action Center - Maintenance

In this section, you can get information related to system maintenance like system backup, Windows update etc. It also enables you to check solutions.

4. Troubleshoot Options

Troubleshooting computer issues has not been easy in Windows 7. The troubleshooting wizard identifies any technical issues and tries to resolve them. The wizard is user-friendly and gives detailed step-by-step instructions.

5. Troubleshooting Report

Producing troubleshooting report is as essential as providing a fix. Windows 7 troubleshooting report provides complete information on the task, issues' description and their status (fixed or not fixed).

Manage the following security features through Windows 7 Security Center

Windows Firewall: This is normally famous as "Network firewall" in Action Center. This tool scans network traffic passing in and out of your system.

Windows Update: In Windows 7 Security Center, Windows Update is merged with the Automatic Updates tool from previous Windows editions. This feature makes sure that essential software updates are installed automatically unless you configure the system otherwise.

Article Source: http://goo.gl/PQI04

Window Security Bars

Window security bars can come in the more traditional styles of vertical bars, arranged either in simple straight rows or arranged into intricate patterns of varied thickness and height. You can also find window security bars in more elaborate designs such as curly leaf patterns and intricate scroll work. You can also get window security bars in all kinds of materials from polished chrome that gleams in the sun to simple steel to classical wrote iron that can be worked into beautiful and complex patterns. The choice is yours as to how your window security bars will look at what they are made of.

Windows security bars are an excellent choice to protect your home and family from the risks and dangers of living in a modern world filled with crime. You must take steps to make sure that your home is secure and window security bars are the best option you have.

Article Source: http://goo.gl/kpPNu

Troubleshooting Windows Security Settings

Security is always a major concern for new operating systems, and Windows 7 is no exception. Microsoft made a number of changes to the security system of Windows 7 as a result of complaints about the security features of Windows Vista, the previous iteration of the Windows operating system.


The Action Center

Alerts about new threats and problems arise at all different times in Vista, and Vista stores electronic logs of these warnings in different locations. Windows 7 eliminates this issue with the Action Center, a feature users can access through the task bar. The Action Center provides a central location for all alerts and storage of logs.

Firewall

Windows 7 offers users a more customizable security solution than Vista when it comes to Windows Firewall. Vista users have to change security preferences to suit their own needs each time they use the computer. Windows 7 allows different users to customize Windows Firewall based on their log-in status.

Account Control


Windows 7 features a more streamlined account permissions system, allowing users to choose how often the system prompts them for permission to make settings changes or install new programs. These settings are not customizable in the Vista operating system.


Read more: http://goo.gl/1abaF

Remove windows 7 Security Center Alert

The Windows 7 Security Center, a built-in security suite, displays alerts and notifications on the System Tray located on the taskbar if a component is not functioning well or important information is available. These alerts include Windows updates, anti-virus failures and firewall status. If you prefer to check for Security Center alerts on your own, remove the automatic Security Center alerts by disabling the function. This will not interfere with security components.

Instructions

Click the "Start" menu, click "Control Panel," click "System and Security," then click "Action Center."

Select the "Change Action Center Settings" option. You should see the "Turn messages on or off" page.

Uncheck the options as desired under "Security Messages." For example, click the "Virus Protection" check box to clear the check mark if you do not want to receive virus protection status alerts.

Click "OK" to save the changes. You should no longer see security alerts on the System Tray on the taskbar.

Read more: http://goo.gl/PGWvY

How to Disable Norton in Windows ?

Norton Internet Security and Norton Personal Firewall provide protection against malicious probes and malicious software (malware) infections on your Windows PC. Norton is a commercial product and requires annual subscriptions to maintain virus definitions and product upgrades. You may decide to try other brands of Internet security software or may need to disable Norton Internet Security to improve performance when gaming or to install other software products. Regardless of your reasons, disabling Norton in Windows takes less than five minutes.

Instructions

Disable Norton Internet Security

Click on "Start." Find "Norton Internet Security" in your programs list and click to open it.


Click on "User Accounts" in the left column. Check your account name to make sure you're logged on as Supervisor.

If you are not logged on as Supervisor, click "Log off." Click "Yes," then select "Log on." Select "Supervisor," enter your password, and click "OK." You can leave the password field blank if a password has not yet been set for the Supervisor account.

Click on "Status and Settings" in the left column.

Click "Security." Select "Turn off."

Read more http://goo.gl/FCe3g

How to Change Firefox Security Settings in Windows 7

The Mozilla Firefox 4 web browser runs on the Windows 7 operating system and is the latest version of the browser as of April 2011. You can change the security settings of Firefox by going into the Security panel in the browser's options screen.

Instructions

Open Firefox.

Click Tools.

Select Options.

Click Security.

Make the changes you wish to make, then click "OK" to save them.


Read more: http://goo.gl/hFTcg

Security Issues in Windows 7

Till recently, it was believed that Windows 7 is vulnerable to eight out of ten new viruses. This is something that it hardly anything to worry about on the Mac. It is quite likely to write a virus that has an affect on only 4% of the computing world.

It has to be more thoroughly reviewed. It cannot be claimed that bad things can't happen to a Mac. It is just simply that it is not a major worry. When a firewall is turned on and when suspect attachments are kept away from people who are not included in your contact list. However it can only go as far as it goes. So the news that tends to claim that the most recent and greatest Microsoft Operating System, the new Windows 7 is still at risk from hackers tends to make someone feel a little uneasy.

There have been instances when analysis have claimed that, albeit the chances of any PC Pro readers operating a machine with no anti-virus software are very remote cases. But one have to admit to gross incompetence now and confess that for the time stretching few weeks Windows 7 has been running without any antivirus software. Users tend to simply fail to digest the fact that there need to be some security cover on even the most up-to-date technological invention.

It is found that the software giants do provide free protection software which are called Security Essentials. This is something that can be very reassuring to a user. Everyone was quick to download this and followed it with a scan that showed after testing by itself that there were no unwanted or corrupted software on a PC whether it be a desk-top or a notebook.

However, it can be a little apprehensive as no one has a clue whether this would be a safe option. Is this software, the latest from Microsoft going to safeguard a user from the various forms of attack? The PC Pro review seems to have quite an answer for it. It says that Security Essentials is in itself quite a far cry from a comprehensive security suite. So are data still at risk? Will there be a need to invest in a subscription service in order to get peace of mind? What is it and which one will be able to protect a user and how much would be the cost? In any case, is this the software developer's security tax equivalent to Apple's design tax?

There have been weeks when a computer was running without security software after the Windows 7 launch, but could this mean that personal data has made its way on a website in an obscure corner of the internet. A lapse approach to security may mean that one will have to face problems further down the line when they have even deployed the security software now loaded.

Whatever can be said and also a lot of conclusions can be made on the Mac security, but then there were never any real or worries on computer security as is with the case in Windows 7. The face of the matter could be a lot different and a user could not be at a security risk at all. However one thing is for sure, Macs have lesser, if any, viruses.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3260010

Step By Step To Install Windows 7

Microsoft Windows 7 is the latest public release version of Microsoft Windows. Windows 7 is the hottest topic on the internet now. Do you want to use Microsoft Windows 7 on your computer? This article is will show you how to install Windows 7 step by step.

Clean installation is a process of putting an entirely new installation of Windows. In order to perform a clean installation of Windows 7, you should format and completely erase data on your hard drive. During a clean installation, the operating system files are installed in a new folder, and you must reinstall all of your applications and reconfigure user preferences, such as desktop and application settings.

On the other side when you upgrade, existing user settings are retained, as are installed applications and application settings. An upgrade is a new version of or addition to a hardware or, more often, software product that is already installed or in use.

Microsoft recommends you to upgrade your existing operating system to Windows 7, but if you are running XP then you cannot go for upgrade option. In that scenario you need to perform a clean installation of Windows 7. But don't forget to take a backup of your data before you initiate a clean installation.
Let's install Windows 7 on your PC step by step now

STEP 1. Insert the Windows 7 disc into DVD drive, then set the BIOS to boot from it.

STEP 2. Press any key on your keyboard to boot from CD or DVD.

STEP 3. Next you should see the first Windows 7 setup screen prompting you to enter your region information.

STEP 4. Set your location and language preferences then click Next.

STEP 5. Next accept the EULA (End User License Agreement) in order to proceed.

STEP 6. The two options are Upgrade and Custom. As this is a new install, the only one we can choose is Custom.

STEP 7. Select the hard drive partition for installing Windows.

STEP 8. During setup system may reboot a couple of times, don't "press any key to boot from CD or DVD" when this happens as it will slow everything down. Let Windows reboot as normal.

STEP 9. Once the file install is complete you will be presented with another black screen with the message, "Setup is preparing your computer for first use".

STEP 10. The next dialog box is where you enter your user and computer name. Enter all your details and click Next. Password time, enter one if you want, or leave it blank, the choice is yours.

STEP 11. The next screen is for the product key. Here you have two options. You can enter the key here and allow Windows to automatically activate once online, or ignore it and enter it later.

STEP 12. The next screen is the security screen where you choose whether or not to allow Windows to automatically update itself. We suggest setting this to Use recommended settings for now.
This will allow the operating system to download updates and fixes as they become available.

STEP 13. Next enter details for time zone, then network settings and etc.

Note: Once you're through with the installation process, you need to activate Windows 7. Activation is a process that verifies, your copy of Windows is not a pirated one. With a genuine copy of Windows 7, you are eligible to receive all available updates and product support from Microsoft. And don' t forget to set a login password to protect your computer. But you must make your password easy to remember and keep it safe. If you lost your password, you must reset Windows 7 password by using some Windows 7 password reset tool or any other methods for Windows 7 password recovery, otherwise you can't use your computer.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Step-by-Step-to-Install-Windows-7/1508720

Windows 7 Security - Five Easy Steps to a More Secure Windows 7

Understanding security threats in Windows 7, is of the utmost importance for professional and personal users alike. When people speak of security threats on their personal computers, they are generally referring to viruses, which can infect your computer in many ways.

A virus is a program that can replicate itself, it usually does this by attaching itself to another object such as an e-mail attachment. Viruses are generally a destructive program designed to corrupt data files and delete installed programs on your PC, and possibly damage the operating system.

Other security threats such as worms and spy-ware also need to be protected against. A worm is a program that often copies itself from one computer on a network to another, worm programs can also contain virus codes that can do damage to your data and wreak havoc with the performance of your PC.

Spy-ware programs are just what the name implies, these are software programs that can track your web surfing habits, display pop-up ads, redirect your browser to a different homepage that's not yours. And collect personal information without your permission.

Number One. First line of defense in securing your computer is creating a log on password. The log on password that you create should not be one that could be easily guessed. Your password should be at least eight characters long, the longer the better. You should use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and spaces.

Do not use your name, your pets name, child's name or any word that can be found in the dictionary. You can also use a phrase as a password, up to 127 characters, it should be something easily remembered by you, so it's not necessary to write it down.

Number Two. The second line of defense in securing your computer is applying a firewall to block outside intruders.Use Windows Firewall, it comes with Windows 7, and is much improved over the previous Windows versions. Any time you're connected to a network, whether it's a private or a public network, you are at risk. Each computer on the network should have its own firewall. That way if another user's computer becomes infected because they are not as vigilant about securing their computer, you will still be protected.

One example is if you take your laptop to work. You may think you're protected because your work place has a firewall installed for their network. But if a co- worker brings in their laptop and it is infected with a virus or mall-ware, you will only be protected If you have a personal firewall installed.

Number Three. The third line of defense is to use an anti-virus program. Windows 7 does not come with an anti-virus program. You will need to obtain one. There are literally hundreds of anti-virus programs available, you can purchase one at a local retailer, or purchase a download online, or download one of the many free versions available. Whatever option works best for you, make sure you do some research about the particular program you choose.

One of the best options is to download a trial version of the anti-virus software of your choice, that way you can try it out on your system, to see if it's the right fit for you. Many of the free versions work as well as the boxed versions. With one exception being the virus definition updates are sometimes slow in coming with the free programs.

Number Four. The fourth line of defense is to use an anti-spyware program. Windows 7 includes a program called Windows Defender, which works well as an anti-spyware program. Some of the indications of spyware infections are new toolbar s in your web browser and new favorites and links that you don't recognize. Also, your homepage might have changed, and you don't know why, you have numerous pop-up ads appearing and you're Internet browser crashes or slows down.

Windows Defender runs continuously in the background monitoring your system to prevent the installation of spyware, and to alert you to any spyware like activity. Windows defender's automatic scans have been improved in Windows 7 over the previous versions of Windows. The automatic scans use less resources than they did in the previous versions. You can schedule the automatic scans to run at whatever time is best so as not to interfere while you are using your computer.

Number Five. The fifth line of defense is to keep Windows up to date. The Windows Update service in Windows 7 is much improved over the version in Windows XP. It no longer is a web-based interface, but is now a Control Panel application. Keeping Windows up to date is an essential step in the security of your computer. The Windows Update feature can be configured to run totally automated, it will search for, download, and install the updates with no needed interaction from you.

There are three categories of updates, important, recommended, and optional. It is recommended to let Windows Update install the important updates as they become available. Security updates are the most important items in the important category, therefore, you should let Windows Update download and install the security updates so you are continuously protected from those who would exploit the vulnerabilities in Windows.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5806992

How To: Remove Windows 7 Repair Virus / Malware ( Removal Guide )

Windows 7 Repair is a malware that acts as a computer analysis and optimization program. Windows 7 Repair malware usually gets installed via a Trojan that once it infects your computer it will start displaying fake messages suggesting that your computer is at risk and, in order to get rid of these threats, you need to download and install Windows 7 Repair.

Clicking OK on these messages will automatically start the download / install process for the Windows 7 Repair. Once installed on your computer, Windows 7 Repair will start a fake scan and it will display numerous threats and infections on your computer. However, these threats are a forgery in order for Windows 7 Repair to scare you into buying the full version of the program. Do NOT give away your personal information as the so called full version of the program is nothing more than another fake tool.

How To: Remove Windows 7 Repair Virus / Malware ( Removal Guide )

The way Windows 7 Repair behaves in order to give you the impression that your system is compromised, is preventing you to run most of the programs whilst displaying fake error messages, not allowing you to access the internet and making some of your files hidden. Follow this guide and you will be able to get rid of these problems.

First of all, you will need to download RKill.exe, Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware (MBAM) and Unhide.exe. In case Windows 7 Repair will prevent you from accessing the internet then you will need to download these programs on another computer and transfer them on the infected machine via any portable means. Now, let’s get on with the disinfection.

• You will need to kill all the Windows 7 Repair related applications and processes. In order to do so you will need to run RKill. After doing so, let RKill fully scan your system and ignore any warning messages from Windows 7 Repair. After the scanning is complete do NOT reboot your computer.

*Note that if Windows 7 Repair will prevent you from successfully running RKill then you will need to download and run another renamed version of RKill from the same download link above.

• Now, let’s solve that internet access problem. You will need internet access during the disinfection process due to the fact that you will need to update MBAM once it comes to that. Windows 7 Repair might prevent you from accessing the internet due to the fact that it has the TDSS rootkit infection attached to itself as well. In order to get rid of TDSS follow this guide. In case you will still be unable to update MBAM then follow this other guide.

• Run MBAM and start the installation process. While you are at it, make sure to check the buttons labeled Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware. Once the installation process is complete, click the Finish button and reboot your computer if MBAM will ask you to do so.

• MBAM should now automatically start after the system reboot, thus presenting you with a message box and the mail window. Press OK on the message box and then on the main window, navigate to the tab labeled Scanner and then select Perform Full Scan below. Last step, press the Scan button.

• It might take some time for MBAM to finish scanning your computer so please be patient. After the scan will be complete you will be presented with the full list of threats found on your machine. Check all of them and then press the Remove Selected button. Reboot your computer once MBAM prompts you to do so.

• Now, your system should be free of Windows 7 Repair but you will still need to be able to see the hidden files that borrowed the hidden attribute from Windows 7 Repair. In order to be able to see your files again either follow this guide or run Unhide.exe.

• Your computer should now be clean but there’s another thing to consider as a security measure. As Windows 7 Repair and other of these malware infections make their way on your system via vulnerable programs that are already on your system, you should read this Secunia PSI guide in order to get rid of any vulnerability in the future.
  

Source : http://www.gforgames.com/how-tos/virus-and-malware-removal-guides/remove-windows-7-repair-virus-malware-removal-guide-11434/

Windows 7 Security Tips - What is Spyware, Adware, Malware and How to Remove Them Free

Surfing the web gets all kinds of junk attaching itself to your PC. Along with cookies and page components come more serious problems: adware, spyware and malware. These annoying software are often not easy to diagnose and its notoriously resource hungry, so you'll notice your computer slowing down, programs taking longer to load, loads of pop ups and even a changed browser home page.

Of the three, adware is the least dangerous; it's a small application that monitors what websites you visit and uses the information to harangue you with pop-ups adverts based what it thinks you are interested in.

Spyware and Malware are potentially more dangerous. Spyware is a program that will sit in the background and can record anything you do on your PC, such as monitor you internet surfing and record your keystrokes. Spyware is usually marketed as a spouse or child monitor or a surveillance tool.

Malware, short for Malicious Software, is worse, and includes Trojans and viruses amongst its number. Though Trojans and viruses are kept at bay by a decent antivirus program, certain spyware falls into this category as it will re-install itself if you try to get rid of it.

So, how do you pick up spyware? All you have to do is browse the Web for a while. Not all freeware is really free, in some cases you pay by getting spyware along with it. If you use a peer-to-peer file sharing program, you almost certainly have spyware, either directly bundled with the sharing program or from an infected fellow file sharer.

Microsoft Windows Defender is a free program that helps protect your computer against pop-ups, slow performance, and security threats caused by spyware and other unwanted software. It features Real-Time Protection, a monitoring system that recommends actions against spyware when it's detected and minimizes interruptions and helps you stay productive.

You can download Windows Defender free from the Microsoft website.

For more Windows Tips, including performance, customization, maintenance, recovery, efficiency, networking and registry tips, all with step by step instructions, be sure to be visit our website and begin to unleash your computers potential.

Source: http://goo.gl/9wBO3

Windows 7 Unbootable Post Black Screen and Flashing Cursor

In most cases of an unbootable system, the user encounters a BSOD (Blue Screen Of Death), black/blue screen with flashing cursor, or a 'startup repair' failure error message. In either of the above outcomes, data saved in Windows 7 based hard drive becomes inaccessible. To access the data in such situations, Windows user needs to restore data from an updated backup. However, if the backup disappoints you and restores incomplete data, then you will need to use an efficient third-party Data Recovery Software to recover lost data. Below is one such scenario that explains Windows 7 unbootability problem in detail.

Suppose you have a dual-boot system with Windows Server 2008 and Windows 7 operating system (on primary partition) installed. You installed some driver updates in Windows Server 2008 and restart your system. However, to your surprise, when you reboot your system, you encounter a black screen with flashing cursor. The black screen appears every time you try to boot your system. Since the system is unable to bypass the black screen, the data saved in both Windows Server 2008 and Windows 7 based partitions becomes inaccessible.

Cause

The above stated problem occurs under following situations:

Corruption in Boot.ini file
Invalid device driver update
File System damage

Resolution

To resolve the above issue and to access data saved in both the partitions, you will need to follow the below steps:

Boot the system in Safe mode and select 'Last Known Good Configuration' option
Try to boot your system using 'Startup Repair' option
Run 'CHKDSK' command to repair the file system

However, if all the three resolutions fail to resolve the issue, then you will need to reinstall the operating system and restore data from an updated backup. However, in case of no backup, you will need to recoup data using commercial Data Recovery utility. Such Data Recovery tools use effective recovery techniques to recoup data after almost all logical data loss scenarios.

Windows Data Recovery is a third-party data recovery software that recovers data from formatted Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2003, and 2000 based hard disks. Supported by almost all file systems (NTFS, NTFS5, FAT12, FAT16, FAT32, and VFAT), the tool is easy to understand and doesn't require any prior technical knowledge.

Source: http://goo.gl/NMhZT

Boost Your Computer’s Performance with Windows 7 Virus Scanner

Nowadays, computer viruses are getting more and more sophisticated and can enter your computer even if it is equipped with antivirus or antispyware software in a deceitful manner. So you should be very much conscious about the security of your computer data. These viruses can ruin your computer’s memory as a consequence of which, you may face serious issues with your operating system and application software. You can even lose your entire data stored over the hard disk.

Windows 7 has been shipped with immense features, which can take care of your security concerns by scanning and diagnosing the viruses on real time. So there is no need to depend on antivirus software, which offer only limited protection and that’s too after shedding a considerable amount of money.

But you need to be careful about their status on regular basis.

Features
Inbuilt features of Windows 7 like Windows Firewall and Windows Defender play an important role to protect your computer from viruses and other malicious threats. They must be kept well configured and enabled at every moment when you are online. These are equipped with anti-spammer, effective scan engine, Guard, Quarantine, and Scheduler features, so that you can get holistic protection from all offline and online threats. They can scan and remove computer virus instantly from your computer.

Usability
With the above Windows 7 virus scanning tools, you can get good protection from viruses and other malicious software, which harms your privacy and computer’s performance in many ways. These tools monitor your computer on real-time basis, so that you can keep your memory and Windows registry in a sound condition, which will avoid probability of hardware and software conflicts and minimize chances of blue screen error, hard disk crash and sluggish performance.

Limitation
It has been noticed that Windows Firewall delivers only one-way protection. It can check either the incoming or the outgoing traffic at a time. Windows firewall often becomes problematic, when you try to download or install some application software on your computer.

Recommendation
Keep your Windows Defender and Windows Firewall in a well configured state and also ensure they are enabled. To combat with severe infection from computer viruses, you can deploy online scanner tools available on trusted website. For quick resolution, you can call your tech support provider, which can assist in real-time.

Source: http://goo.gl/TqnWC

Windows 7 Operating System Security

An operating system is always developed keeping in mind the advantages and disadvantages of the microprocessors of that time. The hardware should always be at par with the software and vice versa. I am actually trying to point at the 64 bit implementation of the Windows 7 on Intel Core vPro processors. Windows 7 has gone through a Security Development Life Cycle or SDL in which technical aspects were taken into account. To get assistance on computer security, consult a tech support expert. Let us discuss the outcome and implementation of it as seen in the operating system.

1) Data Execution Prevention or the DEP feature of the OS executes the ED it or the Execute disable bit in Intel Processors against computer viruses that uses the buffer-flow technique for corrupting the computer.

2) Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) is another worry factor for those hackers who target specific memory address locations. Imagine that the critical areas of your hard drive where data and other system files reside are being hacked to the level of specific addresses but if the address locations are randomized then no matter where the data resides, it will be difficult for any malicious code to detect it and bring harm to the computer. Cool idea isn't it?

3) Safe Structured Exception Handling. What is that? Well, an exception is a situation which is other than natural and needs to be taken care in a specific manner. This, in programmed structures are done in a specific way so that subroutines are robust enough when due to a virus infection or system file corruption an unwanted situation arise in a computer.

4) Do not forget the Kerberos v5 a protocol for encryption that is used to send passwords over the internet. The question is why should we do so? The answer is that even when you are logging into a website you need to put a password which is again using the internet as the carrier.

5) There are a number of tools which enables us to look after the health of the operating system like the Event Viewer and the UAC (User Account Control) which gives you the required security and at the same time better tools to dive into the changes that went on in the recent past and created the problem you are facing now with the computer.

All said and done, the question still arises as to why do we still get virus infections in our computer? The answer is that no machine in this world is fully perfect and the war between the good and the bad continues no matter whether one wins the temporary game against the other or not. The malicious-code writers are still there. Consult a good technician for total PC maintenance and virus removal. It is not always the branded antivirus software that can give you total security form malicious code. The wireless connectivity between your router and the computer, encrypting your mails, configuring your antivirus cum firewall are some simple ways that actually serves your purpose.


Source : http://goo.gl/AOlir

Windows 7 Security Feature

Microsoft Windows 7 has seen users reporting various security level norms and problems that are undergoing within their operating system. Microsoft has sought out the solution by providing users with free security solutions to Windows 7 users, but then too it was neglected by many revenue companies towards the solution.

According the problem, users always seems to see their security related problems first, in such regard Microsoft team offered Windows Update feature in their Windows 7 operating system which can detect the presence of Windows 7 Antivirus solutions into their operating system. In a survey, it was seen that many had reported with no Windows 7 Antivirus solution uploaded in their system. Therefore, Microsoft sought to offer free Antivirus software to Windows 7 users which is the Microsoft Security Essentials(MSE) software feature. However this brought about a fight in antivirus software sites which started revolting against the announcement of Microsoft to provide free antivirus software at no cost of money.

There were totally many issues raised up in the regard. The Antivirus software companies reported that there is no dependence that users can be with downloading the free Microsoft Security Essentials(MSE) from the feature of Windows 7 updates. It shouldn't be implied as a way of distributing softwares within the operating system as it might get spammed. The companies feel that Microsoft should close up with this feature and allow the Windows 7 Antivirus softwares to come up legally with advanced operating mode to Windows 7 users.

Source mywindowsclub

How to use VPN Reconnect

Roaming users generally rely on VPNs (virtual private networks) to provide a secure connection between their computer and the internal company network. You don’t have to know how it works, but it’s the magic technology that convinces IT managers to say yes to working from outside the office.

When you’re sitting in a hotel room, at a customer’s office or in your own study, and you establish a VPN connection, your PC will generally stay logged on without any problems. However, when you’re relying on a Wi-Fi hotspot or mobile broadband dongle to establish a VPN connection while on the move, you may suffer frequent dropped connections and a cumbersome process for re-authenticating and re-establishing the VPN connection each time.

The VPN Reconnect feature allows Windows 7 to automatically re-establish active VPN connections after Internet connectivity is interrupted. As soon as Windows 7 reconnects to the internet, it will also reconnect to the VPN.

Inevitably, the VPN will still be ­unavailable as long as the internet connection is down, and the process of reconnecting will take a few seconds after access becomes available again, but VPN Reconnect at least ensures that your ­network resources will pop back up as soon as possible, without you ­having to fiddle around with anything.

We promised you some technical details, so: VPN Reconnect is basically an IPsec tunnel using the IKEv2 (Internet Key Exchange) protocol for key negotiation and for transmission of ESP (Encapsulating Security Payload) packets. ESP is part of the industry standard IPsec security architecture, which provides confidentiality, authentication of data origin and connectionless integrity.

In plain English: the system knows where data is coming from and that it hasn’t been seen or modified on the way.

Why all this fuss just to maintain your connection? Well, it’s a trickier job than it might seem. For example, when viewing streaming video over a VPN connection while you’re on a train, you would typically lose all buffered data and have to start the video again every time the connection went down.

The features of the IKEv2 IPSec tunnel and ESP help to ensure a persistent connection, despite wrinkles like the IP address changing during the reconnection (as it well might when you’re connecting to someone else’s server, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot or mobile phone network), and allow the streaming video to resume from the point it was at when VPN connectivity was lost.

Source pcadvisor

Ultimate guide to Windows 7 security

Windows 7 has been warmly received and swiftly adopted by businesses, with the result that many IT admins are now struggling with the platform’s new security features. In addition to changes to User Account Control, BitLocker, and other features inherited from Windows Vista, Windows 7 introduces a slew of security capabilities that businesses will want to take advantage of.

Windows 7 improves on Vista with a friendlier UAC mechanism, the ability to encrypt removable media and hard drive volumes, broader support for strong cryptographic ciphers, hassle-free secure remote access, and sophisticated protection against Trojan malware in the form of AppLocker, to name just a few.

In this guide, I’ll run through these and other significant security enhancements in Windows 7, and provide my recommendations for configuring and using them. I’ll pay especially close attention to the new AppLocker application control feature, which may be a Windows shop’s most practical and affordable way to combat socially engineered Trojan malware.

New and improved

Windows 7 has literally hundreds of security changes and additions, far too many to cover in one fell swoop. While this guide focuses on the ones that most organizations will be interested in, keep in mind that plenty of others may deserve your attention. A few the biggies not discussed here are built-in support for smart cards and biometrics, the ability to force the use of Kerberos in a feature called Restrict NTLM, and support for the new DNSSec standards, which are becoming essential to prevent DNS exploitation attacks. Also noteworthy is a new feature called Extended Protection for Authentication, which prevents many sophisticated man-in-the-middle attacks that can strike at some of our most trusted security protocols (such as SSL and TLS).

User Account Control

A Windows Vista feature that users loved to hate, User Account Control has been significantly improved to be both less intrusive and smarter at distinguishing between legitimate and potentially malicious activities in Windows 7. However, depending on whether you are logged on as administrator or a standard user, some installs of Windows 7 may have a default UAC security setting that’s one level lower than some experts (including yours truly) recommend. Standard users have UAC security default to the most secure setting, while administrator accounts reside a notch below the highest setting, which is potentially riskier.

Note too that, although UAC provides a much-needed mechanism to prevent the misuse of administrator privileges, it can be bypassed. If you need high security, users should not log on with an elevated user account until they need it.

Your domain environment should already be at the highest and most secure level (“Always notify”). If it isn’t, make it so. That way, users will be prompted to input their passwords to perform high risk administrative actions. No matter what else, UAC should be enabled.

more on hacking-news.com

Windows 7 security defeated by 8 out of 10 malware applications

Leading up to its release, there was a lot of concern regarding Window 7's default User Account Control (UAC) settings. Namely: it doesn't actually provide any damn security. Alas.

Basically, Microsoft went ahead and reacted to the public outcry regarding the Vista security confirmations. I think we can all agree that they were really annoying (and most power-users turn UAC off because of how irritating they are). As a result, there are significantly fewer UAC warnings in a default Windows 7 installation -- hooray! The problem is that the new default setting in Windows 7 leads you to falsely believe that you have a secure installation right out of the box. Sadly, this is not the case.

It's no surprise then that 8 out of 10 malware Applications defeated the default Windows 7 UAC setting in tests.

So practice safe surfing (duh!) or go and hoik your UAC settings up to the most secure -- and annoying -- setting. Ars Technica has a great guide on patching up your UAC for new Windows 7 users -- or even an experienced user like myself that falsely believed the default setting to be secure.

Source:-downloadsquad.switched.com

Windows 7 Security: 5 Simple Ways to Stay Safer

Is your Windows 7 PC as secure as it could be?

It's often too easy for you busy laptop warriors to assume your Windows PCs are safe. A computer virus? That's not going to happen to me ... until it does.

So in addition to running a full antivirus software suite, either free and good enough (Avast, Microsoft Security Essentials) or paid and Teflon strong (Symantec Norton, Kaspersky), you should also take advantage of Windows 7's built-in security settings and updates.

These five simple security features in Windows 7 help keep the bad guys at bay.

Action Center

Action Center, the home base for your PC's security, lists all information about security settings. The main role of Action Center is to consistently check on security items such as your network firewall and maintenance items including backup and restore, to make sure your machine is healthy.

The Action Center in Windows 7 gives you a view of all your PC's security and maintenance features.

Action Center shows up as a little white flag on the right-hand side of the Windows 7 toolbar, or it can be reached by the path Control Panel -- System and Security -- Action Center.

Inside Action Center, you can make sure your Windows Firewall is on, your antivirus software is up to date and that your PC is set to install updates automatically.

When the status of a monitored security item changes, such as your antivirus becoming out of date, Action Center notifies you with a message in the taskbar. Then when you open Action Center, the status of the item in question changes color to indicate the severity of the problem, and an action is requested.

[ For complete coverage on Microsoft's Windows 7 operating system -- including hands-on reviews, video tutorials and advice on enterprise rollouts -- see CIO.com's Windows 7 Bible. ]

Action Center is a helpful resource that warns you when there may be trouble. Be sure not to neglect those Action Center messages when they turn up.

Windows Defender

Windows Defender, antispyware software that's included with Windows 7, runs automatically when it is turned on.

Spyware is any unwanted or potentially harmful software that can be installed on your computer without your knowledge any time you connect to the Internet. It can also infect your computer when you install programs using a CD or DVD.

Windows Defender staves off spyware in two ways:

* Real-time protection. Windows Defender alerts you when spyware attempts to install itself or to run on your computer. It also alerts you when programs attempt to change important Windows settings.
* Scanning options. You can use Windows Defender to scan for spyware that might be installed on your computer, to schedule scans on a regular basis, and to automatically remove anything that's detected during a scan.

To open Windows Defender, click the Start button located in the far left of the task bar. In the search box, type Defender, and then, in the list of results, click Windows Defender.

User Account Control

UAC, the security feature that prompts you for permission to install or open programs, was despised by Windows Vista users, but it is much more customizable in Windows 7. The options are no longer "on or off"; there are four notification levels that a user can set.

The four settings in Windows 7 UAC's customizable slider range from Always notify to Never notify.

The improved Windows 7 UAC is essential in that it informs you when a program makes a change that could potentially harm your computer or make it susceptible to security threats.

If you are your computer's administrator (in most cases you are), you can click Yes to continue. If you are not an administrator, someone with an administrator account on the computer will have to enter their password for you to continue.

When your permission is needed to open a program or install software, UAC will notify you with one of four different types of dialog boxes:

* When a program or setting is part of Windows and needs your permission to start.
* When a program is not a part of Windows and needs your permission to start
* When a program with an unknown publisher needs your permission to start
* When you have been blocked by your system administrator from running a program because the program is known to be untrusted

To modify User Account Control Settings, click the Start button and then click Control Panel. In the search box, type uac, and then click Change User Account Control Settings.

Windows Update

Windows Update can be a pest, especially when updates pop up when you're in the middle of 10 things. But by installing the latest updates as they become available for your PC, you are continually improving the security, reliability and performance of your computer without too much of an inconvenience.

Slideshow: Windows 7 Hardware in Pictures: The Latest and Greatest Laptops Slideshow: Seven Features in Windows 7 You Probably Don't Know About Slideshow: Seven Tools to Ease Your Windows 7 Rollout

You can set Windows to automatically install "important" and "recommended" updates or to install important updates only. Important updates are for more critical security and reliability issues and recommended updates address noncritical problems.

To turn on automatic Windows Updates:

* Click on the Start button. In the search box type Update, and then in the list of results click Windows Update.
* In the left pane, click Change Settings.
* Under Important updates, you can choose if you want to install new updates automatically, and the day and time you want the latest updates to take place (i.e. Every Day at 6 am).
* Under Recommended Updates select the "Give me recommended updates the same way I receive important updates" check box, and then click OK.

Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall is an easy feature to turn on or off and can help prevent hackers and worms from slithering into your computer through a network or the Internet. A firewall can also help stop your computer from sending malicious software to other computers.

Unless you have another firewall enabled, such as a corporate network firewall, you should turn on Windows Firewall to protect your computer and network (if you have one).

To turn on Windows Firewall:

* Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel. In the search box, type firewall, and then click Windows Firewall.
* In the left pane, click "Turn Windows Firewall on or off." If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
* Click Turn on Windows Firewall under each network location that you want to help protect, and then click OK.

Note: If your computer is connected to a corporate network, your company's group policy settings might prevent you from turning on Windows Firewall.

Source networkworld

How to Adjust Mouse Speed in Windows 7

Here's a quick tip on how you can adjust the mouse pointer speed in Windows 7:

1) Click Start menu, and then open Control Panel.
2) Then click on Hardware and Sound.
3) Now under Devices and Printers, click on Mouse.
4) The Mouse Properties box should pop-up, click on the 'Pointer Options' tab.
5) In the Motion section, adjust the pointer speed by dragging the toggle to the left or right
6) depending on if you want to slow down, or speed up the mouse pointer. You can also check the 7) Enhance pointer precision checkbox, for a more precise mouse pointer.
8) Click OK, to save your changes.